'Only God cares more for Eva's well-being than I do': Alleged kidnapper Carlos Rebelo breaks silence
After months of silence, the 72-year-old contacted News24, saying he would only return Eva Tembo under specific conditions.
Alleged fugitive kidnapper Carlos Rebelo / Image: Supplied
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Carlos Rebelo has been on the run for three months with the six-year-old daughter of his domestic worker.
After months of silence, the 72-year-old reached out to News24, saying he would only return Eva Tembo under specific conditions.
He said he would agree to return her if a High Court reviewed the order mandating her return, and if he could secure free legal representation to fight for custody.
On 12 July, a Johannesburg Children's Court ruled that Rebelo must return Eva to her parents, but he vanished with her on that same day.
RELATED: MISSING CHILD: Kidnapped Eva (6) allegedly spotted in Cape Town after July abduction in JHB
When asked by News24 about their whereabouts, he only confirmed they were 'in South Africa'.
"Let it be known that this is not a kidnapping and that I am not a kidnapper," he told News24. "I am not asking for ransom. I am not disappearing with Eva. I await legal assistance to bring an urgent application in the High Court to set aside the order of the Children's Court of 12 July 2024 and start the matter afresh.
"More than me, only God can care more for Eva's well-being," he added.
"He's made his compelling case, yet, there's something a little bit strange about his wording."
- Barbara Friedman
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